Education Requirements: Earning your CDL is not the same as earning a driver’s license to drive a private vehicle. Because of the size of the vehicle, you are expected to take specialized driving education classes. The sizes of the commercial vehicles driven make this necessary. Prospective truck drivers must have a clean driving record prior to applying for the class; they must also maintain this clean record after they earn their CDL.[/box]
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Driving Record
Your driving record must be clean — if you have more than a few moving violations or a conviction for driving while impaired, you will not be allowed to take the truck driving course.
Necessary Documents
Students wishing to register for the commercial truck driver’s course must have a high school diploma or GED, a social security card, and a valid driver’s license. Some states or CDL schools may require a medical clearance from your doctor.
Classroom Education
Students will be given a manual from which they will study with their peers. This manual provides all of the necessary information about maintaining your truck, driving safely and maintaining your CDL license. You will take your test from the material in this book.
Driving Education
You will receive driving instruction from a licensed instructor at an accredited school. Your driving practice will include the freeway, city roads and parking lots.
Post-Graduation Requirements
Students who have earned their CDL will be required to undergo a medical exam which verifies they are physically fit for driving; this test is required every two years. You must also pass the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Regulations Exam to become a truck driver in the United States.
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